The shock news emerged late this afternoon (Thursday) as the Observer went to press.

Mr Carruth, who joined the council in August 2013, said: “I wish all staff every success in the future and look forward to seeing the many projects and plans now in place come to fruition during the coming years.”

Council leader Scott Farmer said said Mr Carruth was “leaving the council ready and looking forward to embracing the challenges of the future”, wishing him success for the future.